Mathison, who will now compete for United States Fleet Forces SOY, said he could not have done it without the support of his shipmates and family.

“There are nearly 11,000 sailors in the AOR and they’re all outstanding. It’s like trying to pick the MVP for an all-star game,” said Mathison. “We were represented by what the region embodies. It’s a privilege to get to represent the region, Mount Whitney and my family.”

Wilson, who will compete for the Chief of Naval Operations SOY, said that he agreed that the competition is more about support than personal gain.

“It’s an amazing feeling and I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for the Sailors across the AOR,” said Wilson. “It’s about the junior sailors working hard, and also the leadership empowering you so you are able to do the things you need to do to be successful.”

“It’s inspiring for the board members to get to meet and spend time with these Sailors,” said U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa Fleet Master Chief Joann Ortloff, who has spent the last week with the finalists. “It assures us that we are doing great things and that we have great Sailors. This group is not just a representation of the AOR, they represent the whole Navy.”

The SOY program was established in 1972 by then-Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Elmo Zumwalt and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy John Whittet to recognize an individual Sailor who best represented the ever-growing group of dedicated professional Sailors at each command and ultimately the Navy.